The doctor arrived shortly after, a middle-aged man with a calm demeanor and a black bag in hand. He introduced himself briefly before examining Jade, asking her questions about how she felt and any symptoms she had experienced.
“She woke up nauseous and lightheaded,” Milan explained, standing nearby with his arms crossed. “She vomited and passed out in the bathroom.”
The doctor nodded, his expression thoughtful as he listened. He checked Jade’s vitals, took her temperature, and asked about her diet and hydration. After a thorough examination, he sat back, his tone professional yet kind.
“It could be a number of things,” he said. “Stress, dehydration, or even something as simple as a stomach bug. I’d recommend running a few tests to rule out anything serious.”
“Tests?” Jade asked, her brow furrowing.
“Nothing invasive,” the doctor reassured her. “Just bloodwork and a few other routine checks. For now, I’d recommend plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and eating light meals until we get the results.”
Milan nodded curtly. “We’ll arrange everything. Thank you, doctor.”
As the doctor packed up his things, he turned to Jade with a gentle smile. “Try not to worry too much. It’s likely nothing serious, but it’s always better to be cautious.”
Jade thanked him softly, feeling both relieved and nervous as he left.
Once the doctor was gone, the three men turned their attention back to Jade. Thiago sat on the edge of the bed, his expression softer now. “You’re taking the day off. No arguments.”
“I wasn’t planning on working anyway,” Jade said, managing a small smile.
Enzo pulled up a chair beside the bed, his dark eyes studying her. “And you’re not moving from this bed unless one of us is with you.”
Jade laughed weakly. “I feel like I’m being grounded.”
“You are,” Milan said simply, handing her another glass of water. “For your own good.”
Jade sighed, leaning back against the pillows. Despite their sternness, she couldn’t help but feel grateful for their care. “Thanks, guys. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“Let’s not find out,” Thiago said with a wink, lightening the mood.
***
The morning sun filtered through the curtains as Jade lay in bed, feeling slightly better than the day before. The nausea had subsided, and her strength was returning. She was flipping through her phone aimlessly when it buzzed in her hand. She glanced at the screen—a call from the doctor.
Her stomach flipped as she answered. “Hello?”
“Good morning, Ms. Jade,” the doctor’s calm voice came through. “We’ve reviewed your initial test results, and I’d like you to come into the hospital for a more detailed discussion.”
Jade’s heart sank. “Is everything okay?”
“I’d prefer to go over it in person,” the doctor replied, his tone professional but reassuring. “Nothing to be alarmed about. Can you come in today?”
“Yes, of course,” she said quickly. “I’ll be there.”
The moment she hung up, a wave of anxiety washed over her. Before she could spiral, the sound of approaching footsteps caught her attention. Milan, Enzo, and Thiago entered the room, their expressions a mix of concern and determination.
“Who was that?” Milan asked, his sharp gaze locking onto her.
“The doctor,” Jade said, sitting up. “He wants me to come to the hospital to discuss my test results.”
“Then we’re going with you,” Enzo said firmly, leaving no room for argument.
Jade opened her mouth to protest but stopped herself. She knew better than to fight them when they were in protective mode. Instead, she nodded. “Alright. Let’s go.”